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River Bend Booksellers Staff Picks

Mary: James by Percival Everett

"What can I say about James that you wouldn't hear from anyone else lucky enough to read this Huckleberry Finn retelling... Everett creates a world view that I, as a white (passing) woman, wouldn't have gotten otherwise. I spent half of my journey through this story hurting, and the other half in awe.

I'm sure this will be fodder for book banners everywhere, so get as many copies as you can now and spread them like wildfire."

Audrey: The Book of Love by Kelly Link

"At the core of Book of Love is a story as old as time: a battle between good and evil for the human soul. But the language is so fresh, the characters so gorgeously developed and real, it's something entirely new. Three teens disappear one night and are presumed dead. But now they're back (with an unknown person along for the ride) and must compete for a chance to live again. Two return. Two remain. Chills!! A compulsive must-read that defies genre."

Jillian: The Husbands by Holly Gramazio

"The Husbands is fresh, inventive, twisty and funny, and you’ll want to discuss it with everyone. It’s a brilliant exploration of modern decision-making and a commentary on how society seeks to incessantly optimize choice. This book hoodwinked me by starting silly and light, then ending emotionally rich and poignant.

It was unputdownable and a surefire book club pick!"

Ernio: Everyone on This Train Is a Suspect on This Train Is a Suspect by Benjamin Stevenson

"Stevenson brings back his you-won't-believe-what-happens-to-this-guy Ernest Cunningham for another wild adventure, this time aboard a moving train headed to a writers festival. Wouldn't you know it, mystery and crime besets the new cast of characters/passengers that Ernest will inevitably be writing about for his next book.

A fun, tongue-in-cheek, weapon-in-hand thriller with loads of laughs and twists you won't expect. Enjoy the ride!"

Renee: How to Keep House While Drowning by KC Davis

"You've probably heard about this book and questioned if it could live up to the hype. I finally read it and can confirm it's the KINDEST book, and one I absolutely needed. KC is here to tell you that mess is morally neutral and rules like "all clothing needs folding" should be thrown out. If at any point you, like me, start feeling guilty while reading because you don't have kids, she has a chapter for that too. Highly recommend for anyone who struggles to get the checklist done - KC gives permission to write your own rules, and maybe even have no checklist."

David: The Devotion of Suspect X by Keigo Higashino

"Togashi, abusive ex-husband to Yasuko, ends up dead on her apartment floor. Yasuko's neighbor, Ishigami, chimes in and assists in covering up the body and the scene. The detective on the case, who is convinced Ishigami was involved, enlists Dr. Galileo in uncovering the details of Togashi's death in this "how-was-it-done?" Japanese crime thriller. 

I could not put this book down as I eagerly observed Ishigami outmaneuver Dr. Galileo, while also anticipating Dr. Galileo putting the pieces together."

Deb: The Eyes and the Impossible by Dave Eggers

"Oh, my. Eggers' recent Newberry winner is just so good. Hilarious, moving and insightful. The narrative told by a 'free dog' is an absolute delight.

I am reading it with my 11-year-old...but somehow my older kids keep appearing in the room to listen in. A hero dog for the ages."

Veronica: Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera

"If I couldn't remember whether or not I had murdered my best friend, this would be the book I'd write."

Taryn: American Mermaid by Julia Langbein

"Eccentric and enthralling, this is a feminist story that conjures the mermaid being written about to come alive as others debate how she is meant to be perceived."

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